What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from April 28-May 4 and beyond
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TODAY
Mother/Daughter Brunch and Kittens
The Kokomo Humane Society will hold a Mother and Daughter Brunch and Kitten Shower on Sun., April 28, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Elite Event Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St. Indulge in delicious cuisine from Windmill Grill, try your luck at winning a Dreams to Reality Cake, cuddle up with adorable adoptable kittens, and capture precious moments with your daughter with a professional photo by Shelby Rooze Photography. The humane society will collect new items for kitten season and will recruit new fosters at the event. Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mother-daughter-brunch-kitten-shower-tickets-841849302927?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR1EAQhTp2C1mgm_-3nFmL98amupYXXMMjJXk-cn70fuHi0WO88SV8ptPaA
KAA 96th Annual Spring Art Show
The Kokomo Art Association is preparing for its 96th Annual Spring Art Show, May 4 - June 1, and it is looking for artists who would like to be featured. An artist call-out will take place on Sun., April 28, from 1-3 p.m. when artists may drop off their works at the association, 525 W. Ricketts St. Entry forms for the show can be obtained at the association, the Artworks Gallery at 210 N. Main St., or by emailing Lesley at artisfunlnw@aol.com. The show’s reception will take place on Sat., June 1, at 2 p.m.
MONDAY
New Baby Bunch
Do you have a new bundle of joy? Or do you feel like you’re in the trenches of parenting? Join the New Baby Bunch for friendship, support, and to share your parenting journey with other caregivers. The group will meet on Mon., April 29, from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 2 years are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Mon., April 29, from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. This event is designed for children ages 0-2.
Sew Much
Teens and adults can drop in to learn sewing or quilting basics or get help with their projects at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Sew Much event on Mon., April 29, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and from 4-5:30 p.m. Sewing machines provided. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Peek-a-Boo Playdate
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., April 29, from 11-11:30 a.m. for a playful story time full of fun rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers. This event is designed for children ages 0-2 and takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Workers Memorial Day
On Mon., April 29, the local labor community will hold a commemoration for those workers who have been killed or injured on the job over the previous year. The memorial will take place at Rodgers Pavilion in Highland Park at noon. The memorial is sponsored by United Auto Workers Local 292. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Nurses in Recovery
The Nurses in Recovery Support Group will be held on Mon., April 29, from 6-7 p.m. at Turning Point System of Care, 1234 N. Courtland Ave. This program is approved by the Indiana Professional Recovery Program. If you are a nurse in recovery or just need support, Turning Point encourages you to come. This support group will be held every Monday from 6-7 p.m.
Drums Alive! Family Beats
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! – Family Beats session on Mon., April 29, from 6:30-7:15 p.m. The event will take place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Kokomo Young Life
Kokomo Young Life is a hangout on Monday nights at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St., for all high school students. No YMCA membership required. The hangout is completely free to students. Events consist of fun, games, food, and a short and simple Bible lesson! The club meets each Monday at 7:07 p.m.
TUESDAY
Mental Health Access Days
Are you an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenge? Meet with a professional from 4C Health who can connect you to the support and services you need. The next Mental Health Access Day will be Tuesday, April 30, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Discovery Center: Osmos
Have fun and meet new friends playing with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities. On Tue., April 30, have fun with Osmos at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
WEDNESDAY
Legal Aid Clinic
Need Pro bono representation? Have questions for an attorney? Apply with Pro Bono Indiana, Inc. to get the legal assistance you need at no cost to you! This service will be provided at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 9 a.m. until noon. No appointment needed.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Wed., May 1, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Firefly Stage Ribbon Cutting
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., May 1, from 10-11 a.m. as it officially celebrates its new outdoor Firefly Stage at the south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, with a ribbon cutting. This event is open to the public.
Discovery Center: 3D Pens
Have fun and meet new friends playing with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities. On Wed., May 1, have fun with 3D pens at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Wed., May 1, from 5-8 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Write something to submit and critique. Adults who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend.
Digital Designs: Journal Prompt Jar
Create a one-of-a-kind jar full of prompts for all your journaling adventures with the Digital Den at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., May 1, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join the wait list for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Blind Tiger Comedy Open Mic
Blind Tiger Comedy hosts an open mic comedy night each Wednesday evening at 9 p.m. at the Elbow Room, 1004 N. Washington St. Anyone is welcome to take to the microphone to try to make people laugh.
THURSDAY
Teen Art Group
Would you like the chance to sketch, color, and paint regularly with your friends? Then join the Teen Art Group at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., May 2, from 4-4:55 p.m.
DIY Star Wars Droids
Children ages 8 to 13 can express their creativity and master the Force while using science, technology, engineering, art, and math skills at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., May 2. Create upcycled droids from 4-5:30 p.m. to celebrate Star Wars Day, which takes place on May 4. This event will be held at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., May 2, from 5-6 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Write something to submit and critique. Teens who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend.
Solidarity Shred Day
Join Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union on Thu., May 2, from 5:15-6:30 p.m. as it hosts a shredding event at its main office, 201 E. Southway Blvd. The shredding will take place in the parking lot by the drive-up lanes. Please do not arrive prior to 5:15 p.m. Maximum of three file boxes per vehicle. No plastic or glass containers. Remove any wire binding prior to arriving.
Amazing World of Virtual Reality
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., May 2, from 6-7 p.m. to experience the Amazing World of Virtual Reality. STEM is part of virtual reality fun. There also will be other STEM gadgets to play with. The event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Art in Progress
Calling all young artists! The Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Kids’ Art Club will meet on Thu., May 2, from 6-7 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Unleash your creativity through fun projects, and learn artistic skills in a supportive and lively environment.
Kokomo’s Funniest Comedian
Rhine Hall Entertainment Venue, 507 N. Union St., presents Kokomo’s Funniest Comedian: Comedy for a Cause. Every Thursday evening in May, a rotating line-up of comedians will vie for a spot in the Kokomo’s Funniest Comedian finals, determined by a panel of celebrity judges and audience votes. The audience votes by donating $1 per vote for the comedian of their choice. Each week, the donations collected will be given to a different charity, along with a portion of ticket sales. The comedian receiving the most audience votes over the four preliminary competition weeks will earn a spot in the final. On May 2, United Way Serving Howard and Tipton Counties will receive the donations. Kokomo Urban Outreach is the recipient on May 9. The Howard County Veterans Memorial Corp. is the benefitting charity on May 16, and Ainsley’s Angels will benefit from donations on May 23. The finals will be held on Thu., May 31. Doors open each week at 6:30 p.m., and the shows start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10.
Kokomo Bobkats Basketball
The Kokomo Bobkats will play a home game against the Lebanon Leprechauns on Thu., May 2, Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium, 200 N. Apperson Way. Game time is 7:05 p.m. Gates open one hour before tip-off. Tickets are $20 for lower bowl seating and $10 for upper bowl seating; Season tickets are $250 for lower bowl and $120 for upper bowl. Buy season tickets and merchandise anytime at 2989 S. Webster St. or by visiting www.kokomobobkats.com.
FRIDAY
Chocolate Celebration
The Samaritan Caregivers’ annual Chocolate Celebration is scheduled for Fri., May 3, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at One Church, 2734 S. Washington St. Tickets are 5 for $20 and can be obtained at the Samaritan Caregivers office, 2705 S. Berkley Road, Suite 3C, in advance or by visiting https://www.samaritancaregivers.org/chocolate-celebration . Tickets also may be purchased at the door on the day of the event.
Fiber Art Exhibition
The Kokomo Art Association will present a Fiber Arts Exhibition from May 3-31 at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon until 4 p.m.
First Friday: Art Walk
The next First Friday event in downtown Kokomo takes place on Fri., May 3, from 5:30-8:00 p.m. The evening includes a Free, arts-based, open-house tour of downtown Kokomo. The May theme is Art Walk. Visitors to the downtown area during the event will find discounts and activities at shops and restaurants, and live music, public art, family-friendly activities and more; Visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com .
SATURDAY
Downtown Farmers Market Opening Day
The Kokomo Downtown Farmers Market will launch its 2024 season on Sat., May 4, from 9 a.m. until noon, on the market grounds at the corner of Mulberry and Washington streets. The market will be held each Saturday through September. For more information, visit www.kokomofarmersmarket.com .
Reading with Pet Partners
Kids can practice their reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., or at the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Sat., May 4, from 11 a.m. until noon.
The Big Secret: Starting and Finishing Your Novel
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., May 4, as Indiana author Larry D. Sweazy shares tips and tricks on how to start and finish your own novel. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 1-4 p.m. Thanks to Indiana Humanities and the Indiana Authors Awards for sponsoring this event. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Narrow Gate Derby Ball
The 3rd Annual Derby Ball fundraiser for Narrow Gate Horse Ranch will take place on Sat., May 4, at The Experience at the Kokomo Country Club. The event runs from 5-10 p.m. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., and dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. Dress for this event is formal/semi-formal. There also will be a contest for Best Hat. The Kentucky Derby will be live streamed during the ball, and those in attendance may vote for the winning horse. There will be a deejay and dancing, along with door prizes and a silent/live auction. More than 20 churches have created themed baskets for the silent auction. Register in advance to see items in the silent auction 3-4 days before the event. Attending the event is not necessary to bid on the silent auction items. Tickets for the Derby Ball at $65 per person and are available by visiting www.narrowgatehorseranch.com.
COMING SOON
The Chicken or the Egg
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library through Tue., May 14, as they watch chickens hatch from eggs. A “chicken cam” will be set up in the Children’s Department of the library main branch, 220 N. Union St., so that visitors can take a look all day long.
Free Mammograms
If you're uninsured or experiencing financial hardship, Advanced Medical Imaging, 2008 W. Boulevard St., is providing free mammograms to local women in need. Call 765-454-9729 or click here to schedule the appointment today: https://www.amikokomo.com/3d-screening-mammogram-appointments/
KSO Youth Finale Concert
The Kokomo Symphony Orchestra will hold its Youth Finale Concert on Sun., May 5, at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St., starting at 3 p.m. KSO youth will perform various pieces they have learned throughout the year. This is a free concert for the entire community; Visit www.kokomosymphony.net for more information.
Nursery Rhyme Time
Learn nursery rhymes accompanied by fun, hands-on activities at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Mon., May 6, from 10-10:30 a.m.
An Evening of Upcycling
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., May 6, from 6-7 p.m. and learn to make old things new again. Or find a new use for items normally thrown away. The Howard County Recycling District will visit the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. for an evening of upcycling.
Swim Lessons
Registration for the Kokomo Family YMCA’s Swim Lessons is now open. Lessons begin May 6, giving your child time to get comfortable in and around water as pool season approaches. There are classes for children ages 6 months to 2 years, 3-5 years, and 6-13 years old. Register at https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Search.mvc?category_ids=TAG9259&fbclid=IwAR18n-XKVJJrqRvspxPFdyIDLINl8ONOFKYRgjGf8qG7AScI53zd2bt2Lgg_aem_ATj3h2In30bojNT1jTDuKdWuJXPeeCWOqDEvVy5mnd2N9q24jopDTR0olHGCXT_5vTqoDV5bPLR0_O_gNVqTZKQ4
Great Looking Lawns
Would you like to be the talk of the town with your great-looking lawn? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., May 7, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. as Purdue Extension Educator Mathias Ingle talks about lawn maintenance basics at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.
Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group
The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets the first Tuesday of each month at Chapel Hill Christian Church, 2600 W. Alto Road, from 6:30-8 p.m. The next meeting takes place on Tue., May 7. Enter the building from the east through Door 11. For additional information, contact Debby McCombs at 765-432-6546 or Michelle Sutton at 765-860-4360.
Kokomo CEO Trade Show
The annual Kokomo CEO Trade Show will take place on Thu., May 9, from 4-6:30 p.m. at Northview Church, 3409 S, CR 200 W. Eighteen businesses launched by local high school students will be on display. Explore, interact with, and make purchases from these new entrepreneurs, or schedule future appointments with them. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.kokomoceo.com .
Cookies and Canvas
Kids and their caring adult, whether parents, guardians, or mentors, come together to celebrate self-expression and love for art while building meaningful connections between generations. This Palette Pals painting event takes place at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., May 9, from 5:30-7 p.m.
Mental Health Resiliency Summit
Join the Howard County Nonprofit and Faith Leader Council for the first Youth Mental Health Resiliency Summit, set for Fri., May 10, at the Kokomo Thriving Center, 1916 E. Markland Ave. This summit is the result of reviewing how the community approaches youth and mental health, and this event holds immense significance for the community's approach to addressing this national crisis locally, holistically, and collaboratively. Attendance at this summit is completely free and includes breakfast and lunch for attendees. To register for the summit and secure a spot, simply click on this registration link https://www.thrivingkokomo.com/event-5621460. Space is limited, so register ASAP. The full agenda and speaker lineup can be found here: https://www.thrivingkokomo.com/event-5621460.
Cricut Fun
How do you recycle and create at the same time? Find the answer on Fri., May 10, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Decorate your own tin planter as a special Earth Day craft. All supplies will be provided.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Auditions
Curtain Call Theatre for Children announces auditions will be held for its production of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” on Sat., May 11, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Grace Fellowship Church, 2700 Park Road. The performances will be July 19-20. Sign up for an audition slot by visiting www.kcctc.org. Audition sides and resources are available on the site. Those auditioning will be asked to prepare a vocal audition of 30-45 seconds and a monologue lasting one minute. Additional information about the audition is available on the website.
Craft Corner
Metal buckets and vases make great home decor accessories, centerpieces, or party favors for bridal showers, weddings, or any other celebration. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., May 11, from 1-3 p.m. We'll add some pizzazz to make the buckets look spectacular! This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Dungeons and Dragons at KHCPL
Enjoy endless possibilities for adventure and storytelling as the Kokomo Howard County Public Library hosts an evening of Dungeons and Dragons on Sat., May 11, from 5-8 p.m. at the main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Mother’s Day Tea Party
Put on your Sunday best for an elegant afternoon filled with delightful conversation, lovely entertainment, exquisite tea, and a delectable assortment of sweet and savory treats at the Mother’s Day Tea Party on Sun., May 12. Occasions Divine will host the party at Rhine Hall, 507 N. Union St., beginning at 1 p.m. Tickets are $45 each, $160 for a four-person table, or $250 for a six-person table. There is a mimosa bar add-on for $15, with mocktail options available. A ticket includes unlimited tea and water, sweet treats at each table, lunch, musical entertainment, a photo booth with one free professional photo, and an entry for a prize drawing. Register by clicking here.
Closing the Gap Summer Camp
The Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., will hold its 28th annual Summer Camp, entitled Closing the Gap, on June 4-20. The camp, which is open to children in grades K-5, will meet each Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. until noon. Participants will have access to language, computer, and math classes, based on academic need, a teacher recommendation, school attendance, and test scores. Registrations are being accepted now through May 14. For more information and to apply, call 765-457-9318.